[From the article: We can file this one – at a push – under open source engineering, even if – given this involves Microsoft – no Linux is involved. The Redmond giant has has announced the official launch of Gadgeteer, a set of electronic parts designed to be plugged together to build prototypes or working electronic devices. Remote controlled cars and cameras are given as possible examples. It is aimed squarely at “hobbyists, electronic enthusiasts and educators” and Microsoft says it does not require any specialist electronics knowledge or soldering. The idea is to make it simple for anyone to quickly design and build their own devices.—Might be a good fit for a lab. Jim]